The factory could close by 2008

Pork Farms is to close its factory in Trowbridge and invest in a Nottingham plant to be able to continue producing Melton Mowbray pork pies under EU laws.

The factory could be closed by 2008 with up to 400 jobs going, although some employees may move to Shaftesbury.

Andrew Murrison, Tory MP for Westbury, now plans to meet company officials and trade union officials.

'Crying shame'

He said: "I am devastated by this news. Had ministers been at all sympathetic when I raised this issue with them three years ago, there would not now be this threat to my constituents' jobs.

"I am truly appalled and sickened by this."

A union said the move was caused by EU laws limiting use of the brand to goods made within 40 miles of Melton Mowbray.

The European Commission has yet to grant this application, but is widely expected to do so before the end of the year.

Mike Godley, general manager at Trowbridge said: "We understand that this proposal is likely to cause concern for those affected and their families.

"We would like to thank employees and trade unions for their co-operation and continued support at this time."

A company spokesman added: "If we do have to make people redundant, we anticipate providing outplacement support in finding new employment, or training."